Choose to answer one of the following prompts:
A. James Watson, one of "the fathers of DNA", has often publicly shared his opinions about socially "disadvantaged" groups and genetics. In, 2007, in an interview with Charlotte Hunt-Grubbe of the Sunday Times (interview uploaded on blackboard), Watson madean unfounded claim about race and intelligence that resultedin critiques from around the globe. After reading the entire article, in a 2-3 page paper address the following: What understandings of the scientific, social, political and historical constructions of genetics and difference is Watson missing in his analysis?
B. Although few studies linking genetics and behavior have been repeatable, the media is quick to focus on possible genetic links. In this 20/20 news segment, the search for the "gay gene" is framed as a solution to (external and internal) homophobia faced by gay males. After watching the entire segment, in a 2-3 page paper address the following: What understandings of the scientific, political and historical constructions of genetics and difference are missing from the news segment?
For either essay, be sure that you address ALL of the following:
1) Explain the claim about genetics and difference being made by Watson (Option A) or by the 20/20 reporter (Option B).
2) Explain how genetic explanations for these socially salient categories of difference fail. (for example, Why are there no genes for race? Why may searches for a "gay gene" be futile?)
3) Explain the social and political assumptions that underlie the scientific claims. Explain how these claims are related to the histories of scientific constructions of gender, race and sexuality.
4) Explain possible social and political ramifications (consequences) of these scientific claims.
5) Cite at least two of our readings from Weeks 8-11 to support your analysis.